Japan's Kindai University. PVL Media Bureau
MANILA — Japan's Kindai University made quick of ProVolley Academy, 25-15, 25-12, 25-13, to announce its entry in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“Thank you for the invite. I’m really happy to be part of this conference,” said Kindai University head coach Hideyuki Mitsuyama through an interpreter.
The Japanese side dominated across all facets, delivering 53 attacks, seven blocks, and two aces in a commanding 65-minute performance. In contrast, ProVolley Academy struggled to keep up, managing just 24 attacks, a single block, and no aces, underscoring the gulf between the teams in their opening clash.
Haruka Misugi, who tallied a game-high 16 points, was named Player of the Game. “I appreciate being able to play volleyball in front of Philippine fans. It’s a big challenge going up against the Philippine teams,” he said.
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Ryutaro Aun contributed 12 points—all from attacks—while Tojiro Shimomasu added 10 markers for the Japanese squad, who now share early tournament leadership with Savouge. Off the bench, Kentaro Hata added seven points, and Yoshiki Yasuda contributed eight points, 11 excellent receptions, and seven digs. Fil-Japanese middle blocker Yuma Onabe, listed as the team’s second libero, did not see action.
ProVolley Academy’s top scorer was Samuel Hansen with 10 points. Filipinos Jude Aspero and JR Prospero also shone despite the loss, with Aspero posting five points and 11 excellent receptions, and Prospero recording 11 excellent receptions and five excellent digs.
Kindai University will face top-seeded Criss Cross in what promises to be a tough test on Saturday at 3 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.